Hearts Move Eight Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
